There's No Place Like Home

Prairie Ridge Village transformed into a scene from the Wizard of Oz on Aug. 23 for their annual Family Appreciation Day. The staff of the assisted living facility puts on the annual event as a way to thank area businesses and the community for helping out the residents and staff of the facility. It also provides a chance for residents to get out, see people they might not have the opportunity to see on a regular basis and get the community familiar with the services offered by not only the facility but by local businesses who participate in the event.

"The event went amazing," said Director of Prairie Ridge Amber Swindler. "Around 350 people were fed and we had over 500 people enter into the drawings. This is the largest attended event we have held." According to Swindler, this year saw lots of returning vendors, and even some new ones as well. "I am so glad Nemont was able to attend this year. Usually they are traveling to the different fairs so they aren't able to make it. Those vendors who couldn't attend provided generous donations," said Swindler.

In addition to having appearances by multiple Dorothys, Glenda the Good Witch, the Wicked Witch of the West and the Scarecrow, the original band of The Classics provided the musical entertainment for the evening. "It was cool to see Dave [Pippin] back with the original band. This is the first time they played together in awhile, so it was a real treat for us," stated Swindler.

Each year Swindler and her staff brainstorm ideas on the theme for the event. "We throw around different themes, and a moment comes where we just stick with one idea. Things just mushroom and grow. I have such creative minds and hands on my staff that it just all works out," said Swindler. Coincidentally this year's theme corresponded with the 80th anniversary of the release of the Wizard of Oz movie. "I am so grateful for my staff and their involvement in making this event possible. It was also really neat to see our vendors dress up as characters from the movie," stated Swindler.

Swindler is very appreciative and grateful for her staff, the businesses, and the community for making this event a successful one. "Everyone came together. My team is amazing and this evening is a great display of what community is all about," stressed Swindler.